If you didn't pay for it, you are the product

I can’t remember where I read this, it was a few years ago and was in the context of apps. We expect most apps to be free. We expect content to be free. We use free platforms all the time. That’s why we are bombarded with ads - targeted or not.

It resonated with me. If I used only the free version of an app they were collecting my data, they were asking me for reviews and feedback, interrupting me with adverts . For just a few dollars all that would go away and I could use my app in peace. It made sense. And who was I to expect free solutions to my needs and wants.

The same principle applies to some of the tools, platforms and applications we use in business.

So I thought I’d give a quick rundown of some of things I have found it worth paying for and why.

Vimeo - I use this video hosting and sharing platform along with YouTube but for different reasons. Vimeo gives me more control over how the video displays and can be accessed. For example, I can customise the player functions and any logos. I can select the domains where the video can be embedded or create a private share link. If I make a change to the video and replace it, anywhere the video is linked the video updates automatically (this is not possible with YouTube). I think about the purpose of the video before choosing the platform. Seeking an audience? Then it’s a no brainer to use YouTube. Using it for an online program or client communication - Vimeo. Sometimes it goes on both because that makes sense too.

CrowdCast - After looking into all the popular platforms for hosting Webinars I went with the paid version of CrowdCast because it was more cost effective in terms of participants and duration of sessions, you automatically get a recorsding of the session, which you can also download. The interface is clean and simple, with a sidebar for participant chat, a question feature and easy screen sharing of both presentations and other presenters.

Mighty Networks - Basically a private network, a hybrid between a website and Facebook Group but with lots of functionality and no ads or algorithmns. I’ve used this platform to create an online community for a client that can build a tribe of like-minded professionals and generate revenue through courses and events. It is not perfect but it has an ambitious roadmap and commun ity-centred business at its heart.

Canva - Graphic design for non-designers! The free version of Canva is super useful and non-intrusive. The pro-version gives you added functionality including free images and icons, the ability to create brand pallets and more options in terms of formats.

That said there are some free tools that I rely on and use regularly. These include:

Slack - For communication, files sharing and quick content reviews

Trello - For organising, setting, progressing and sharing tasks

Anchor - For publishing podcasts to aggregates and providing a podcast platform.